Having beautiful braids is a versatile yet timeless way to make a fashion statement. There are so many braided hairstyles out there that it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to learn. Fear not, because ‘Braiding Basics: Mastering Classic and Modern Braided Hairstyles’ will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to rock the looks you love! This guide will have you braiding like a pro in no time.
1. An Introduction to Braiding Basics
Braiding is one of those skills that can be applied in ways both functional and fashionable. Versatile and attractive, braiding is a fun way to add texture and richness to any style of hair. So why not learn the basics of braiding and spruce up your style?
When it comes to braiding there are a few key techniques and terms you need to know. The most basic of them is braiding together three different sections of hair. Whether you’re doing a French braid, a Dutch braid, a fishtail braid, or whichever variation, it’s typically done by laying three sections of hair and crossing each section over the one below it. You then repeat this process down the entire length of the hair.
To ensure your braids look smooth and neat you’ll need to start with clean hair. You’ll also want to use an appropriate brush or comb. When it comes to brushes, options like a Denman brush or tail comb are helpful in keeping the hair taut while braiding. Finally, for long lasting braids, you should never forget to spritz the braid with hair spray to reduce flyaways and keep the braid in place.
Now grab those hair ties, brush, and whichever braid you’re looking to try and get creative! A good starting point is to try out the following three braids:
- French braid: A classic look, the French braid is made by overlapping the side strands under the middle.
- Dutch braid: Technically the reverse of the French braid, the Dutch braid is achieved by overlapping the side strands over the middle strand.
- Fishtail braid: A nice variation to try is the fishtail braid which is made by splitting the hair into two sections. Create a ‘V’ shape and take a small piece of hair from the outer side of each split, crossing it over to the other side of the split.
2. Perfecting the Art of Classic Braids
If you’re confident in your French braid skills, it’s time to explore the art of classic braids. This style has been around for centuries and is still a signature hairstyle for many occasions. Perfecting the art of classic braiding can take some time, but is worth the effort:
- Start with detangled and clean hair. Having a smooth, untangled base will ensure your braid looks flawless.
- Practice with a few strands. To refine your technique, it can help to practice with a few strands first. This will help you stay comfortable with the basics and make sure you’re using the right motions.
Once you have refined your technique, you’ll be ready to start braiding. Here are some classic braids you can practice and perfect:
- Dutch braid – This style looks like a French braid on the outside, but the sections are crossed under instead of over.
- Fishtail braid – With this style, strands from the side of the head are added together in alternating sections.
- Ladder braid – A continuous looping pattern gives this braid a unique look.
When you master the art of classic braiding, you can style a variety of hairstyles that will make you stand out from the crowd. With a little bit of practice, you can master the art of classic braids.
3. Unlocking the Magic of Modern Braids
Braided hairstyles are no longer the same as before, when long hair barely held down two simple braids. Today, there are a myriad of modern braids in all shapes, sizes, and colors – allowing us to let imagination and creativity run free!
To bring out the beauty of these modern braids, try out a few of these tips:
- Be daring: Create unique patterns and designs by weaving in pieces of beaded string or coloured rope to add a personalised touch.
- Choose the right products: Certain products like silkening gels provide the perfect foundation for braids to look sleek and tidy.
- Accessorise: Make braids more beautiful by adding in ribbons, cuffs, clasps, and other ornaments.
Modern braids can easily be transformed into wonderful, elegant, and stylish looks – so unleash your inner artist and start experimenting!
4. Everyday Braids for Every Occasion
Braids have long been a fashion staple, but they can still be surprisingly versatile. From the trendy French braid to the classic fishtail, there’s a look for every occasion.
Let’s start with the French braid. It’s the perfect style for the office or a night out. For a simple, polished look, braid your hair tightly and let it hang loose. For a more playful style, add some accessory clips or a ribbon for a touch of fun.
For weekend getaways or casual brunch dates, a fishtail braid is a comfortable and stylish look. Easier to create than it looks, get creative with color or put a unique spin on it by braiding it over one shoulder. The possibilities are endless.
Not feeling the braid vibe? A messy bun is always a safe option. Start with a low ponytail and use the ends of your hair to twist and wrap around the base. Push a few stray strands out of your face and it’s done. Pull on the edges to give it more volume.
We can’t forget the classic look, the half-up half-down. Even better known as the “mum bun,” this style can be done in just minutes. Gather the top section of your hair and twist it until it forms a bun. Then, release any strands of hair that have fallen out to give it a playful look.
5. Creative Ways to Accessorize Your Braids
Braids are a classic and iconic hairstyle that offer tons of versatile styling options. Whether you’re looking to dress them up or down, the right accessorizing can give your braids an extra zing. We’ve got some creative ideas to add just the right finishing touch to your braids.
- Headbands – Headbands are a timeless accessory and they look even better when paired with braids. From sweet and simple wide cotton headbands to crystal-encrusted bands with beading – there are so many options that can instantly add oomph to any braid look.
- Ribbons and fabic strewn in – A great way to dress up a basic braid or a French braid is by weaving in a few ribbons. Keep it classy and simple, and add on ribbons in matching colors with the dress or any other outfit. Or make your braids pop with a bright colored or patterned ribbon with sequins, stones, and other accessories.
- Clips and slides – Whether you choose a single yet statement making slide or clip or opt for a bunch of them, these tiny styling elements can be great for adding a little something extra to your braid. Gold and silver clips and slides look especially chic, and can be mixed and matched to give your braid a very chic and modern touch.
These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg – the possibilities are practically endless. From blingy jewels and clips to tassel highlights and floral accents, you can use all of these to create a unique and edgy look with your braids. The sky’s the limit, so let your creativity take over and transform your regular braids into a dazzling, fashionable updo.
Braids are a classic beauty style that offer endless possibilities. From classic to modern, get creative and have fun with it. With just a few simple tools and techniques, you can master these sophisticated and chic braided hairstyles. With some practice and patience, you’ll be a pro in no time! Happy braiding!